Private schools push back against Korea's free tuition plan for nat'l universities

South Korea is considering a plan to make tuition free for about 64,000 new students at 30 national universities outside Seoul starting in 2027. The government hopes the policy will support regional universities and help promote balanced development across the country.

Under the proposal, free tuition would eventually expand to all undergraduate students at these national universities during the current administration. International students are not included for now. The government expects the program to cost about 100 billion won in its first year, increasing to around 400 billion won annually by 2030.

Private universities, especially those outside the Seoul metropolitan area, strongly oppose the plan. They are already struggling with fewer students and financial difficulties. They worry that free tuition at national universities will attract even more students away from private universities.

Critics also say the government did not properly consult private universities before announcing the proposal. They argue that the policy could cause some regional private universities and junior colleges to lose students and eventually close, which could seriously affect smaller cities that depend on these institutions.

The Education Ministry says national universities have an important public role in regional communities. It also plans to provide regional scholarships and other support for private universities. However, critics remain concerned about whether free tuition at national universities alone can truly strengthen regional education and local economies.

Edited using generative AI tools. 
Source: https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/education/20260807/private-schools-push-back-against-koreas-free-tuition-plan-for-natl-universities

Comprehension

What is the South Korean government proposing for national universities?
How many students could receive free tuition under the plan?
Why are private universities opposed to the proposal?
How could the policy affect smaller cities?
What support does the government plan to provide for private universities?

Discussion

Do you think university tuition should be free? Why or why not?
Should the government give more financial support to public universities than private universities?
What are the advantages of free university tuition?
What problems could free tuition create?
Why are regional universities important to smaller cities?
How can governments encourage young people to study outside major cities?
Should international students also receive free tuition? Why or why not?
What would make you choose one university over another?

Vocabulary

Tuition – money paid for education at a school or university.
Proposal – a plan or suggestion for consideration.
National university – a university supported and funded by the government.
Private university – a university that is not directly run by the government.
Enrollment – the number of students studying at a school or university.
Scholarship – money given to help a student pay for education.
Financial pressure – a difficult situation caused by money problems.
Viability – the ability to continue successfully.